SC parents charged after teen with disorder dies

SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (AP) — Relatives say they are puzzled that the parents of a 13-year-old Summerville boy with a rare disease have been charged with murder.

Joshua Mendoza died in his sleep Feb. 10.

His stepfather, 29-year-old Jason Monroe Buckely and the teen’s mother, 31-year-old Kimberly Marie Love, surrendered to police earlier this week. It was not clear if they have attorneys.

Mendoza suffered from tuberous sclerosis, a neurological disorder that caused benign tumors on his heart and prompted seizures.

An autopsy determined Joshua died of malnourishment and neglect.

Forty-nine-year-old Kathleen Nicholson says the arrests resulted from investigators’ failure to understand her grandson’s genetic disorder.

Summerville police Capt. Jon Rogers said Monday the arrests were based on findings by the coroner’s office.

Three other children have been taken into protective custody.